I have been told that there are no HARP loans in West Virginia because the state will not allow financining over 80% of loan to va

Doesn't sound right to me, but I don't handle loans there. If you'd like a definite answer I can give you a contact to check with. pdumouchel@primelending.com The State would really be hurting the prospects for recovery in values with that law.

You have been told wrong.. West Virginia had laws which stated you cannot borrow more than your home was worth, which would limit refinancing if you were underwater, however, SB551 modified the current laws, and it was passed in March of 2012 allowing you to refinance under these government programs where you can refinance, even if your underwater. there was nothing in the laws prohibiting you from refinancing a first mortgage or purchasing a home if you didn't not have 20% equity, or putting 20% down. Think about it.. if this were the case, no one in WV would be able to purchase a home unless they had 20% down payment.. no FHA 3.5% down, no USDA 100% loans, no Veterans Affair's 100% loans.. they would all be illegal.. and that's simply not the case.

Whoever told you that thankfully is 100% wrong!